Incurable by Israel Zangwill (1894)
The novel revolves around the theme of love and its destructive power. It tells the story of a young woman who falls deeply in love with a man who is already engaged to be married. The woman's obsession with this man leads her down a path of self-destruction, ultimately resulting in tragic consequences. The narrative explores the complexities of human emotions, particularly the all-consuming nature of love and its ability to drive individuals to madness. Through the protagonist's descent into chaos, the novel highlights the devastating effects of unrequited love and the destructive power it can wield over one's life. Throughout the story, the author delves into the psychological aspects of love, revealing the darker side of human emotions. The novel raises questions about the nature of love, its consequences, and the blurred lines between sanity and madness. The narrative is characterized by a sense of foreboding and inevitability, as the protagonist's actions lead her further down a path from which there is no return. The author's use of language creates a sense of tension and suspense, drawing the reader into the world of the novel and refusing to let go until the tragic conclusion. Ultimately, the novel presents a bleak portrayal of love as a destructive force that can consume individuals, leaving them shattered and broken.
By Israel Zangwill · First published 1894 · Genre: Drama, Tragedy, Realism · 5,449 words
First lines
"_Cast off among the dead, like the slain that lie in the grave. Whom Thou rememberest no more, and they are cut off from Thy hand. Thou hast laid me in the lowest pit, in dark places, in the deeps. Thy wrath lieth hard upon me and Thou hast afflicted me with all Thy waves. Thou hast put mine acquaintance far from me; Thou hast made me an abomination unto them; I am shut up and I cannot come forth. Mine eye wasteth away by reason of affliction. I have called daily upon Thee, O Lord, I have spread forth my hands unto Thee._" -- Eighty-eighth Psalm.
What this Textopian page supports
Incurable is listed on Textopian as a novel by Israel Zangwill, dated 1894 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Israel Zangwill
- Date: 1894 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Drama, Tragedy, Realism, Psychological Fiction, Social Commentary
- Length: 5,449 words
- Structure: 1 section, 181 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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- Work identity for Incurable by Israel Zangwill
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Drama — The narrative focuses on intense emotional conflicts and personal struggles, characteristic of dramatic literature.
- Tragedy — The story involves suffering and a downfall, with themes of betrayal and despair, aligning with tragic elements.
- Realism — The depiction of everyday life and social issues, particularly within a Jewish community, reflects a realistic portrayal.
- Psychological Fiction — The exploration of the characters' inner thoughts and emotional states is central to the narrative.
Tags
Psychological Fiction · Medical Drama · Social Commentary · Realism · Victorian Era · London Setting · Family Conflict · Marriage Crisis · Mental Illness · Sanitariums · Treatment of the Mentally Ill · Societal Pressure